The Who

The Downtown BOOST Program is seeking entrepreneurs that…

1. Present a strong business plan—Applicants should demonstrate in their application they can successfully execute their concept, as evidenced by financial performance, employment levels, and capital reserves.
2. Create a broad community impact—Priority will be given to businesses that seek to cross-pollinate with other businesses Downtown and provide signature experiences for both local residents and visitors.
3. Have original ideas—Businesses must be creative and unique for Downtown Baltimore. Priority will be given to businesses that offer services or products that do not exist anywhere else in Baltimore.
4. Support Downtown Baltimore’s recovery—Applicants should demonstrate in their application how their store will increase local foot traffic and attract new customers to Downtown Baltimore in the post-COVID economy.

The What

If selected to be a part of the BOOST Harborplace Incubator Program, you will receive…

• Up to $20,000 – 25,000 toward the interior improvements and set-up of the retail space.
• An affordable lease at one of 7 locations listed in BOOST Harborplace Tenant Opportunities document in the Application Materials section.
• Robust technical, legal, marketing, zoning and permitting, and accounting support through the BOOST Cohort program, a short but intense business support and educational component required to receive the grant.

The Why

As in the rest of the country, storefront vacancies have increased in Downtown Baltimore due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Black-owned small business have been most at-risk for closure, and have historically had less access to capital. Additionally, targeted business incentives will ensure Downtown Baltimore’s retail sector has a swift and equitable recovery.

Eligibility

In order to qualify for the Downtown BOOST Program applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements.

• Retail businesses that that have been operational and registered with the state of Maryland for at least 1 year, with preference for applicants of color
• Applicants should currently employ at least 2 employees.
• Qualifying retail businesses includes any small business that will operate an open, activated storefront in which goods and services are exchanged, including: include food and beverage establishments, clothing stores, markets, and specialty retailers.
• Businesses should be currently operating in the Greater Baltimore area, with priority given to those based in Baltimore City.

Current Program Timeline

September 12, 2023: BOOST Harborplace Incubator Application Opens

September 18, 2023, 1–2 PM: Information/FAQ session hosted via Zoom

September 27, 2023, 9-11 AM: Open House for business owners interested in touring the available retail spaces. Check in at the former H&M space in the Light Street Pavillion upon arrival.

October 6, 2023: Application Deadline

October 13, 2023: NEW Application Deadline

First Week of November, 2023: Winners notified

First Week of January: Winners Notified

Sponsors & Partners

Boost Harborplace Incubator is made possible by MCB Real Estate and by the Office of Mayor Brandon Scott.

BOOST Round 2 was Sponsored by Guinness Open Gate Brewery and supported by BGE. It is also supported by Baltimore Community Lending, Gross Mendelsohn, Real Projectives, Rosenberg Martin Greenberg LLP, Maryland Small Business Development Center, the Small Business Resource Center and Trout Daniel & Associates.